Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship

The US Chess Trust administers the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship, an initiative of Grandmaster Maurice Ashley.

Description:

The Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship is awarded annually to young African-Americans who demonstrate exceptional talent, passion, and dedication to the game of chess. In the spirit of Grandmaster Maurice Ashley’s trailblazing career, this fellowship aims to support players from communities with limited financial means who aspire to make chess their full-time profession and positively impact the chess community.

Award details:

The Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship provides financial support for coaching, national and international tournament participation, as well as mentorship opportunities to help the recipients navigate a successful chess career.

Eligibility:

  • Candidates must be US citizens who are African-American/Black.
  • Candidates must demonstrate financial need and limited access to chess-related resources or opportunities.
  • Candidates must have a proven track record of competitive chess play, showcasing potential for growth and excellence in the sport.
  • Candidates must express a clear ambition to pursue chess as a full-time career.
  • Candidates must be 20 years old or younger and must meet a minimum rating requirement of (Age x 100) + 500. (For example, a 10-year-old would have to be at least 1500 USCF and a 15-year-old would have to be at least 2000 USCF)

Selection Criteria:

  1. Chess Skill & Potential: Applicants should have a strong foundation in chess, with demonstrated achievements in local, regional, or national tournaments. Evidence of continuous improvement and future potential is highly valued.
  2. Commitment to Chess as a Career: Applicants must outline their long-term goals for pursuing chess professionally. This can include plans to compete at higher levels, teach, coach, or contribute to the development of chess in underrepresented communities.
  3. Community Engagement: In line with Maurice Ashley’s legacy, candidates must display a commitment to using chess as a tool for education, mentorship, or community-building.
  4. Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate that financial constraints are a significant barrier to their chess development or career ambitions. Awards will vary based on need.

Application Process:

Candidates must submit:

  • A personal statement detailing their chess journey, future aspirations, and how they intend to use chess to give back to their community.
  • A summary of their competitive chess history and achievements.
  • Proof of financial need (e.g., income documentation, financial aid forms).
  • Letters of recommendation from a chess coach, mentor, or community leader.

A shortlist of candidates may be called to participate in an interview as part of the selection process. 

Applications will open February 1st and the deadline for submission is June 1st of each year.

Apply Here: https://www.uschesstrust.org/maurice-ashley-chess-fellowship-online-application/

Awards Committee:

GM Maurice Ashley, GM Fabiano Caruana, Rochelle Ballantyne

The recipients of the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship will be selected based on their potential to make a lasting impact on both the chess world and their community. As this is a private award, applicants must agree that the decision of the Awards Committee is final. Appeals will not be considered. The committee reserves the right to make all final determinations regarding eligibility and selection. The US Chess Trust will announce the winners of the Maurice Ashley Fellowships and present the awards funded through special donors. However, the US Chess Trust is not involved in the selection process.

Initial funding for the MACF was seeded by a $20,000 personal contribution from GM Ashley. Ongoing support from donors and sponsors will be critical to the fellowship’s ability to grow and sustain its mission of leveling the playing field in elite chess.

To contribute to the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship, please visit:
https://www.uschesstrust.org/donate/

For media inquiries, contact:

pr@mauriceashley.com

Ashley Winners:

2025 NM Jacorey Bynum

2025 GM Brewington Hardaway

2025 Ayden Spellman-Robinson